Otago Polytechnic is a public tertiary education provider in Dunedin, New Zealand that focuses on hands-on, industry-relevant education. It offers a range of vocational and degree qualifications designed to prepare students for real careers. International students benefit from academic support, wellbeing services, practical training, and guidance on living and studying in NZ. The Polytechnic’s nursing programmes are well-recognized and respected among health employers in New Zealand.

 

Why Study Bachelor of Nursing at Otago Polytechnic

The Bachelor of Nursing (Level 7) prepares you to become a Registered Nurse (RN) — a globally recognized healthcare qualification. Nurses are in high demand worldwide, and this degree equips you with clinical, theoretical and professional skills to work safely and confidently with individuals, wh?nau (family) and communities. You will gain hands-on experience through simulation labs and extensive clinical placements that prepare you for diverse healthcare settings.

 

Subjects / Programme Structure

The Bachelor of Nursing consists of structured courses over three years, totalling 360 credits:

Year 1 (120 credits)

• Nursing Practice 1

• Knowledge for Practice 1

• Evidence Based Nursing 1

• Human Body Systems

• People of this Place 1: Population Health

• Human Behaviour

• Pharmacology

Year 2 (120 credits)

• Community Health

• Acute Care

• Senior Persons Health

• Mental Health & Addictions

• Knowledge for Practice 2

• Evidence Based Nursing 2

• Pathophysiology

• People of this Place 2: Tangata Whenua

Year 3 (120 credits)

• Advanced Community Health

• Acute Care 3

• Mental Health & Addictions 3

• Knowledge for Practice 3

• Evidence Based Nursing 3

• Transition to Registered Nurse Practice (major capstone)

 

Highlights & Unique Features

• Professional registration pathway: After graduating, you are eligible to sit the New Zealand State Final Examination required for registration as a Registered Nurse in NZ.
• Blended learning model: Combines practical, theoretical and online learning for flexibility and skill development.
• Simulation suites: Practice clinical skills in a safe, realistic environment.
• Strong clinical exposure: Real placements across diverse health settings prepare you for real-life nursing practice.
• Cultural competence: Incorporates principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and healthcare for diverse communities.

 

Career Outcomes

Upon graduation and successful registration, you can work in roles such as:

• Registered Nurse in hospitals

• Community Health Nurse

• Mental Health Nurse

• Primary Health Care Nurse

• Aged Care Nurse

• Public/Population Health roles

 

Visa Requirements

International students must apply for a New Zealand Student Visa to study full-time on campus. You’ll generally need:

• Offer of Place from Otago Polytechnic
• Proof of funds (tuition + living costs)
• Valid passport and certified academic transcripts
• English proficiency evidence
• Health/medical insurance